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March 21 is International Day of Forests

March 21 is the International Day of Forests, dedicated to recognizing the importance of trees and protecting forests. Within the framework of the celebration of the International Day of Forests, the Agroforestry Research Division of the LEPL Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture is actively involved in various scientific and practical events aimed at promoting the sustainable development of Georgia's forests.

It is noteworthy that in 2024, within the framework of the ongoing project "Study of Rare and Relict Forest Species in georgia and creationof an Electronic Database", an inventory of rare oak species (Q. hartwissiana, Q. pontica) locations was carried out; detailed studies were conducted at 15 locations of Hartwiss oak and 16 locations of Pontic oak; maps and a database showing their distribution were prepared; in parallel, molecular-genetic studies of the mentioned oaks are underway, the results of which will be presented at the end of 2025.

In addition to the above, in 2024, the Jighaura experimental base completed the testing of 25 fast-growing hybrid forms of poplar imported from Italy and Turkey and the selection of variants adapted to Georgian conditions. As a result of the 5-year study, 6 hybrid forms were selected, which can be used to grow both energy and industrial plantations in Georgia in order to obtain wood resources very quickly. The 2 selected forms of poplar can be used in windbreaks.

Two brochures were prepared and printed on these issues, and scientific articles were published.

It is worth noting that the Jighaura Agroforestry Collection was established in 2015 for the purpose of conservation and protection of forest crops. The majority of the species are endemic. In 2024, 14 new species were added to the collection.